Beatles have lasting impact

February 16, 2014

As Feb. 9 marked the 50th anniversary of the Beatles' first appearance on the "Ed Sullivan Show," which was watched by more than 73 million viewers, launching the era of Beatlemania in the United States, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on this most historic event.

When the Beatles embarked on their first U.S. tour in February 1964, the pall of the recent assassination of our nation's beloved President John F. Kennedy was still omnipresent, but as a result of the arrival of those four exceptionally talented lads from Liverpool, England, the overall mood of our great nation seemed to change almost overnight to one of inspired positivity and hope for the future.

Undeniably, the Beatles have made an inspirational impact on the world as few who had come before or since their arrival as true cultural icons, who far transcended even their undeniable and unparalleled impact on the music industry.

For those of us who grew up in the 1960s, our generation was truly inspired by the Beatles' far-reaching impact on society and, in particular, the youth culture of the time.

The contributions of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr of a most positive nature, far beyond the world of music, simply cannot be overstated.

I vividly recall the Beatles' February 1964 appearance on the "Ed Sullivan Show," and from that point on became a lifelong fan of the Fab Four.

For many, the Beatles were the embodiment of the decade of the 1960s.

Although, sadly, John and George have passed, we are most fortunate to continue to have Paul and Ringo among us.

The Beatles have had a lasting impact on the lives of many, including myself, and for that I am sincerely grateful.